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Ground Turkey Sloppy Joes Recipe

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3.9 from 35 reviews

This Ground Turkey Sloppy Joes recipe is a healthier twist on a classic comfort food favorite. Made with lean ground turkey and a savory tomato-based sauce, this easy-to-make dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The sauce is packed with flavor from garlic, onions, tomato paste, and spices, simmered to a perfect thickness and served warm on toasted buns.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
  • 1/2 large Onion, diced
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 pound 93% Lean Ground Turkey
  • ¼ cup Water (or more as needed)
  • 1 (14.5-ounce can) Crushed Tomatoes
  • 1/3 cup Tomato Paste (about half of a 6-ounce can)
  • 1 tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Chili Powder
  • Salt and Black Pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat the Oil: Place a saucepan over medium heat and add the olive oil. Heat it until it shimmers to prepare for sautéing the vegetables.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the hot oil. Cook them, stirring occasionally, until they become tender and fragrant.
  3. Cook the Turkey: Add the ground turkey to the pan. Continue cooking, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until it is fully browned.
  4. Drain Excess Grease: If there is any excess grease from the turkey, carefully drain it from the pan to keep the dish lean.
  5. Deglaze the Pan: Pour in a splash of water and use it to loosen any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan; these add great flavor to the sauce.
  6. Add Sauce Ingredients: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and chili powder until well combined.
  7. Simmer the Sauce: Bring the mixture just to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
  8. Season: Taste the sauce and add salt and black pepper as needed to enhance the flavors.
  9. Serve: Spoon the sloppy joe mixture onto toasted buns and add your favorite toppings if desired. Serve warm.
  10. Storage: Allow leftovers to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 90 days.
  11. Reheat: When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to restore moisture and heat through thoroughly.

Notes

  • For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the sauce.
  • Serve with classic toppings like pickles, shredded cheese, or coleslaw for added texture.
  • If you prefer beef, you can substitute ground turkey with lean ground beef.
  • Make sure to brown the meat well for a deeper flavor.
  • Use gluten-free buns if you require a gluten-free meal.